You have probably seen the little “925” or “S925” stamp on earrings, necklaces and rings. But what does it actually mean, and is 925 sterling silver real silver?
The short answer: yes. Here is everything you need to know before you buy.
What does 925 mean?
The number 925 means the metal is 92.5% pure silver. The other 7.5% is a mix of other metals, usually copper.
Pure silver (99.9%, often called “fine silver”) is very soft. A dainty chain or a pair of hoops made from pure silver would bend and scratch almost immediately. Adding a small amount of copper makes the silver strong enough to wear every day, while keeping its bright, white shine.
That 92.5% blend is the international standard known as sterling silver.
What do the stamps look like?
Real sterling silver jewellery is usually marked with one of these:
- 925
- S925
- Sterling or Ster
- .925
On dainty pieces, the stamp is tiny. Look on the clasp, the back of a pendant, the inside of a hoop or the post of an earring.
Sterling silver vs silver-plated vs “silver-tone”
These words look similar but mean very different things:
| Term | What it is | How long it lasts |
|---|---|---|
| 925 sterling silver | 92.5% real silver all the way through | Years, with simple care |
| Silver-plated | A thin silver layer over a cheaper base metal | The plating can wear off |
| Silver-tone / silver-colour | No real silver, just the colour | Can fade, may irritate skin |
| Stainless steel | A steel alloy, no silver | Durable, but not silver |
If a listing only says “silver colour” or “silver tone”, it is not real silver.
Is 925 silver good quality?
Yes. Sterling silver is the most popular choice for fine jewellery because it is:
- Real precious metal that keeps its value far better than fashion jewellery
- Bright and elegant, perfect for minimalist, dainty styles
- Kind to most sensitive skin
- Easy to clean at home when it tarnishes
Some sterling silver jewellery is also finished with a thin layer of rhodium or gold. The base is still real silver. The finish just adds extra shine or colour.
How to tell if your silver is real
- Check for the stamp. No stamp is not always a red flag on very small pieces, but it is a good first check.
- Watch for tarnish. Real silver slowly darkens over time. Plain plated metals may peel or show a different colour underneath instead.
- Try a magnet. Silver is not magnetic. If a magnet grabs your piece firmly, it is not sterling silver.
- Buy from a seller who says it plainly. A trustworthy shop clearly states “925 sterling silver” in the product name and description.
Frequently asked questions
Is S925 the same as 925?
Yes. S925 simply means “sterling 925”. Both mean 92.5% silver.
Will 925 sterling silver turn my skin green?
Very rarely. Green marks are much more common with cheap brass or copper fashion jewellery. If it ever happens with silver, it is usually a reaction between the copper in the alloy, sweat and lotion, and it washes off easily.
Can 925 silver be worn every day?
Yes. Just take it off for swimming, showering and the gym, and store it in a zip bag when you are not wearing it. See our guide on how to clean sterling silver.
Is 925 silver worth buying?
For dainty, everyday jewellery, it is one of the best choices. It looks elegant, lasts for years and is affordable.
Shop real 925 sterling silver
Every Brilliant Belle piece is real 925 sterling silver. Explore our dainty silver earrings, silver necklaces and silver bracelets, each gift-boxed and delivered across South Africa.
